State v. Ayansu

Introduction

Jason K. Ayansu (Appellant) appeals from the trial court's judgment entered after a jury trial convicting him of second-degree murder, two counts of armed criminal action, one count of attempted kidnapping, and one count of resisting arrest. We affirm.

Background

On the morning of July 4, 2009, Appellant was with his uncle, Levi Battley (Victim) at Woodland Apartments in St. Louis County. For reasons unknown, Appellant attacked and killed Victim by striking him repeatedly in the head with a hammer. Witnesses testified to observing Appellant striking Victim in the head with a hammer…